Handheld non-lethal dazzling system

ABSTRACT

A non-lethal dazzling device includes a laser operable in the visible spectrum. The laser can be a relatively low-powered laser, such as a laser having a maximum output power of 2.5 mW, or it can be a higher-powered laser with a drive circuit that lowers the maximum output power to a safe level based on the range of the hostile target from the laser. In certain embodiments, the disclosed non-lethal dazzling device can be coupled to the bridge of a binocular device.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present disclosure is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 17/380,099, filed on Jul. 20, 2021 on behalf of inventor DanielPoplawski, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/887,961, filed on May 29, 2020 on behalf of inventor DanielPoplawski, which claims priority of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/382,290, filed on Apr. 12, 2019, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/657,291, which was filed on Apr.13, 2018 on behalf of inventor Daniel Poplawski, all of which are herebyincorporated by reference in the entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present invention generally relates to non-lethal laser devices, andmore particularly, to the use of non-lethal lasers and non-lethal lasersystems for dazzling or stunning persons, as well as to methods ofdeploying the same.

DESCRIPTION OF BACKGROUND

In recent years, the issue of mass shootings has risen to nationalprominence. In particular, publicly available data shows that there wereat least 146 mass shootings in the United States between 1967 and 2017,with an average of eight fatalities (including the perpetrator); here weare using the definition of at least four or more persons shot or killedas comprising a mass shooting—other definitions result in far highernumbers of mass shootings. Numerous solutions have been proposed tolower the number of mass shootings. These solutions include, forexample, banning certain firearms, raising the minimum age of a personto purchase certain firearms, or adding additional mental healthrequirements for the purchase of a firearm. All of these solutionsrequire changes to the law, which, in the present political climate isfar from certain. In addition, various studies appear to demonstratethat some of these solutions may not be effective.

One solution that has been proposed that would not require changing “gunlaws” is adding armed guards to various “target” locations, such asschools. For example, it has been proposed to arm school teachers. Theviability of such an approach is questionable—school teachers generallyare not trained in the use of firearms, and the use of firearms byuntrained persons may exacerbate a dangerous situation. In particular,the possibility of an untrained person accidentally harming a child willlikely prevent the widespread deployment of armed school teachers.However, the use of a standoff non-lethal device in such a circumstancemay be appropriate.

In recent years, security forces, including military and police forces,have deployed non-lethal devices in increasing numbers. For example,high intensity and laser light can present a glare that degrades visionand cause discomfort for the target. High-intensity light can alsomomentarily blind or dazzle the target, resulting in a temporary loss ofvisual sensitivity after the light source is removed, and canpotentially result in disorientation and nausea. Lasers have been foundto be particularly useful as a non-lethal high-intensity light device.However, lasers can also cause irreversible retinal disorder, which isbanned in most cases by the Protocol on Blinding Laser Weapons.Accordingly, a balance must be struck between providing a laser that isintense enough to dazzle a hostile actor, but not intense enough tocause irreversible retinal disorder to a target.

Various guidelines including ANSI Z136.1 have been developed regardingthe maximum permissible exposure to laser light that an eye canwithstand without suffering irreversible retinal disorder. Generally,the maximum level of tolerable exposure is a function of the laserwavelength, laser intensity as measured in milliwatts per squarecentimeter (mW/cm²), and the duration of the exposure. For purposes ofcalculating the exposure duration, the time is typically assumed to be0.25 s; i.e., the length of time before a blink is complete.

A number of prior art dazzlers have been developed. In particular, anumber of solutions have been developed for or by the United StatesMilitary. Some of these can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,142,650 and6,431,732. Both of these detail cylindrical hand-held or pedestalmounted laser systems suitable for military use. However, these priorart systems are deficient in a number of ways. First, the use of ahand-held or pedestal mounted laser system can be difficult orinconvenient to aim. Second, the range of the prior art systems islimited, at least partially due to the difficulty in aiming. Third, theprior art systems generally require that the user of the dazzler placeherself or himself in harms way. All of these are deficiencies that thepresent disclosure seeks to overcome.

OBJECTS OF THE DISCLOSED SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS

Accordingly, it is an object of this disclosure to provide a hand-helddazzler that will not cause irreversible retinal disorder to a target'seyes.

Another object of this disclosure is to provide a hand-held dazzler thatcan be aimed and operated by a person with minimal or no training.

Another object of this disclosure is to provide a hand-held dazzler thatcan be operated by aiming the dazzler at the hostile target and pressinga single button.

Another object of this disclosure is to provide a hand-held dazzler thatcan adjust the power level of an integrated laser to avoid causingirreversible retinal disorder to a target's eyes while allowing for areasonable range.

Another object of this disclosure is to provide a hand-held dazzler thatcan adjust the power level of an integrated laser to avoid causingirreversible retinal disorder to a target's eyes while allowing for areasonable range through the use of a manual or electronic range finder.

Another object of this disclosure is to provide a remote operateddazzler that can be used to disable a hostile actor while minimizing therisk to the remote operator.

Another object of this disclosure is to provide a remote operateddazzler that provides a large dazzling field that does not require theremote operator to precisely aim the dazzling device.

Another object of this disclosure is to provide a hand-held dazzler thatcan interrupt or reduce the laser output when the dazzler detects it isbeing moved rapidly.

Another object of this disclosure is to provide for the coupling ofmanual focus with low cost electronic focus confirmation to help ensurethe focus distance is confirmed between the manual focus and theelectronic confirmation.

Another object of this disclosure is to provide a dazzler that can bedisabled remotely and require secondary authentication prior to thelaser being enabled.

Another object of this disclosure is to provide a dazzler with limitedprofile from the emitting end, and an easy to identify shape or colorwhen viewed from the side or top view.

Other advantages of this disclosure will be clear to a person ofordinary skill in the art. It should be understood, however, that asystem, an apparatus or a method could practice the disclosure while notachieving all of the enumerated advantages, and that the protecteddisclosure is defined by the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Although the characteristic features of this disclosure will beparticularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself, and themanner in which it may be made and used, may be better understood byreferring to the following description taken in connection with theaccompanying drawings forming a part hereof, wherein like referencenumerals refer to like parts throughout the several views and in which:

FIG. 1 is a sectional view of the underside of a non-lethal dazzlingdevice constructed in accordance with this disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the underside of an alternative non-lethaldazzling device constructed in accordance with this disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view of one side of an alternative non-lethaldazzling device constructed in accordance with this disclosure.

FIG. 3 a is a simplified block diagram of some of the components of thenon-lethal dazzling device of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 4 is a front top perspective view of a non-lethal dazzling deviceconstructed in accordance with this disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a rear top perspective view of a non-lethal dazzling deviceconstructed in accordance with this disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a rear bottom perspective view of a non-lethal dazzling deviceconstructed in accordance with this disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of a non-lethal dazzling device in acompressed form.

FIG. 8 is an exemplary simplified schematic circuit diagram of adazzling circuit for use with a non-lethal dazzling device constructedin accordance with this disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of a non-lethal dazzling deviceconstructed in accordance with this disclosure.

FIG. 10 is an exemplary simplified schematic circuit diagram of adazzling circuit for use with a non-lethal dazzling device constructedin accordance with this disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a personal non-lethal dazzlingdevice constructed in accordance with this disclosure.

FIG. 11 a is a second front perspective view of a personal non-lethaldazzling device constructed in accordance with this disclosure.

FIG. 12 is an exemplary simplified schematic circuit diagram of adazzling circuit for use with a personal non-lethal dazzling deviceconstructed in accordance with this disclosure.

A person of ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that elements ofthe figures above are illustrated for simplicity and clarity, and arenot necessarily drawn to scale. The dimensions of some elements in thefigures may have been exaggerated relative to other elements to helpunderstanding of the present teachings. Furthermore, a particular orderin which certain elements, parts, components, modules, steps, actions,events and/or processes are described or illustrated may not be actuallyrequired. A person of ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that,for the purpose of simplicity and clarity of illustration, some commonlyknown and well-understood elements that are useful and/or necessary in acommercially feasible embodiment may not be depicted in order to providea clear view of various embodiments in accordance with the presentteachings.

SUMMARY

Pursuant to the various embodiments, the present disclosure provides abinocular non-lethal dazzling device. In particular, the disclosedbinocular non-lethal dazzling device comprises a pair of substantiallycylindrical optical housings. Each of the optical housings includes aneye piece, which can include a first lens, a mechanical focal element,such as a system of prisms, and an objective lens. The optical housingsare coupled by an articulated bridge. The articulated bridge includes afocus knob, which is coupled to the focal elements of the substantiallycylindrical optical housings. Operatively coupled to the articulatedbridge is a dazzling module.

The dazzling module comprises a laser drive circuit, at least oneactivation method such as a pushbutton, and a dazzling laser. Thepushbutton is operatively coupled to the laser drive circuit, and causesthe laser drive circuit to generate a suitable laser drive power, whichis used to activate the dazzling laser. The dazzling laser is adapted toproduce a dazzling laser beam which will dazzle a hostile actor withoutcausing irreversible retinal disorder.

In an additional embodiment, the dazzling module of the disclosedbinocular non-lethal dazzling further includes a first power programmingcircuit that is coupled to the pushbutton, which, when activated, causesthe laser drive circuit to be programmed to produce a firstpredetermined laser power level. In addition, the dazzling module couldinclude a second pushbutton that would activate a second powerprogramming circuit that would cause the laser drive circuit to beprogrammed to produce a second predetermined laser power level. Forexample, the first predetermined laser power level could correspond to alow (short-range, i.e., less than 50 yards) laser power level, while thesecond predetermined laser power level could correspond to a high(long-range, i.e., more than 50 yards) laser power level.

In one embodiment, the dazzling module could be coupled to the top orbottom of the articulated bridge. In such an embodiment, the articulatedbridge could comprise a pair of hinges, with one coupled to each of thesubstantially cylindrical optical housings, along with a platformsection, which the dazzling module could sit upon.

In a separate embodiment, the dazzling module could be integrated intothe articulated bridge. In such an embodiment, the articulated bridgecould comprise a single uni-directional hinge disposed between the firstsubstantially cylindrical optical housing and the second substantiallycylindrical optical housing. In addition, the dazzling module itselfcould comprise a substantially cylindrical section disposed with itscenterline substantially beneath the unidirectional hinge.

In an additional embodiment, the dazzling module could further comprisea processor coupled to the pushbutton and the laser drive circuit. Whenthe pushbutton is pressed the processor programs the laser drive circuitto produce an appropriate power level. The power level could be set 1)at a predetermined level based on the pushbutton, 2) at a level based onthe setting of the focus knob, or 3) at a level based on a rangefinder,or 4) at a level based on the setting of the focus knob and confirmedwith a distance based on the rangefinder. With regards to the firstpossibility; i.e., the power level of the laser being set to apredetermined level based on the pushbutton, multiple pushbuttons couldbe used, with each resulting in a different power level being generated.With regards to the second possibility, i.e., the power level beingbased on one or more settings of the focus knob, the different focussettings would be mapped to different ranges, and a power appropriate tothe range would be selected. Finally, with regards to the power beingset based on a range reported by a range finder or in combination withthe focus knob and rangefinder, such an embodiment is explained in moredetail below.

In a rangefinder embodiment, the dazzling module would further include arangefinder transmitter and a rangefinder receiver coupled to theprocessor. When activated, the rangefinder transmitter would generate abeam and the receiver would monitor reflections from that beam, whichwould allow the rangefinder receiver to generate a signal (analog ordigital) that was proportional to the range from the dazzling module andreport that range to the processor. The processor would then program thelaser drive circuit to generate a laser drive power that was appropriatefor the reported range. When used in combination, the binocular would bemanually focused and the rangefinder would then be activated to confirma match of the distance to the target as focused with the distancemeasured by the electronic rangefinder within a predetermined tolerance.As an example, if the focused range to a target is 20 yards, within a30% focus tolerance, the focal range would be 14 to 26 yards. Thedistance confirmation would be considered successful if the electronicrange finder reported an actual distance value between 14 and 26 yards,resulting in a power adjustment at 20 yards of 0.2993 milliwatts using a532 nm (green) 1.0 milliradian beam divergence laser using theguidelines from ANSI Z136.1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Turning to the Figures and to FIG. 1 in particular, the underside of anon-lethal dazzling device 1 constructed in accordance with thisdisclosure is depicted. A first housing 10 is joined to a second housing20 via a bridge 30. The embodiment of FIG. 1 does not incorporate afocal adjustment within the bridge 30; however, it does incorporate alow-powered dazzling laser 40. For example, the dazzling laser 40 can bea Class 3R laser with a power output of, for example, 2.5 milliwatts(mW). A Class 3R laser will generally not cause irreversible retinaldisorder during a momentary exposure of less than 0.25 seconds atdistances greater than 40 feet, which is within the aversion response;i.e., where a person turns away or blinks to avoid bright light. While aClass 3R laser will not cause retinal disorder, it generally can serveas a distraction, glare, or flashblind hazard.

Each of the housing parts 10, 20 contain an eyepiece 16, 17 and anobjective 18, 19. The eyepiece 16, 17 is disposed closest to the user'seye, while the objective lens 18, 19 collects light and brings it intofocus for the user. Objective lens 18,19 may be specially coated toreduce received laser energy that may have been reflected from thetarget. As the embodiment of FIG. 1 is intended to be simple andlow-cost, no mirror or inversion system is used, and no mechanism offocusing the image is provided.

The primary component of a low power laser is a laser diode 45. Such alaser diode can have, for example, a maximum power output of 2.5 mW, awavelength of 670 nm (nanometers), which would make it a red laser, andbe adapted to operate on application of approximately 3V. Diodes withsuch specifications are readily available; in addition, lasers withsimilar specifications can be readily substituted. To aid in quickly andeasily finding the target, the laser spot size may be expanded from thestandard pencil dot size to a larger diameter of about 4 inches. Thelaser spot size may be controlled to be directly proportional orinversely proportional to the distance to the target. In an embodimentwhere the laser spot size is inversely proportional to the distance tothe target, say the spot size at 10 yards to the target equals 4 inchesin diameter, while at 20 yards to the target the spot size equals 3inches, and at 30 yards to the target the spot size equals 2 inches. Onthe other hand, in an embodiment where the laser spot size is directlyproportional to the distance to the target, say the spot size at 10yards to the target equals 2 inches in diameter, while at 20 yards tothe target the spot size equals 3 inches and at 30 yards to the targetthe spot size equals 4 inches. The laser at the target may also berectangular or any other shape that ensures coverage on a face sizetarget, or other predetermined target groups. Other support circuitry isrequired as well, such as, for example, one or more batteries, a voltageregulator, a capacitor to handle current surges, and a current limitingresistor can all be used. However, other circuit configurations can beused to equal effect.

In addition, the dazzling laser 40 includes a trigger. The trigger canbe, for example, a simple pushbutton switch disposed in a positionaccessible to the user. Generally, on activating switch, the laser diode45 is coupled to the power source (not shown) and laser light isgenerated and directed down the center axis 50 of the bridge 30. Forexample, the trigger can be disposed on top of the bridge 30 so that itis easily accessible to a user's fingers when naturally gripping thedazzling device 1.

The embodiment of FIG. 1 is intended as a simple-to-use, low costnon-lethal dazzling device 1. A user simply picks up the dazzling device1, aims it at a hostile target's face by looking down the ocularhousings 10, 20 through the eyepieces 16, 17 and activates the dazzlinglaser 40, resulting in the hostile actor being stunned and temporarilyneutralized.

Turning to FIG. 2 , a more complicated embodiment of the disclosednon-lethal dazzling device is disclosed. In particular, the embodimentof FIG. 2 allows for the user to focus on the hostile target's facewhile simultaneously adjusting the power of the laser.

FIG. 2 depicts a sectional illustration of the underside of a non-lethaldazzling device 100. A first housing 110 is coupled to a second housing120 by a bridge 130. Bridge 130 may be jointed, fixed or releasablyraised above, inline or below the optics. Each of the housing elements110, 120 includes an eyepiece 116, 117, an objective 118, 119, and anaxially displaceable focusing element 121, 122. In addition, bothhousings 110, 120 may include identical prism systems 108 for imageinversion. Prism systems 108 may be specially coated to reduce receivedlaser energy that may have reflected from the target.

The segment 130 includes a dazzling laser 140. The dazzling laser canoptionally be a low-power laser, such as a Class 3R laser diode with apower output of 1.00 mW, a wavelength of 650 nm (making it a red laser)and adapted to operate off of approximately 5V. Such a laser diode isreadily available, and provides the advantage of providing sufficientpower for a reasonable range of 25 yards, while not providing sufficientpower to cause irreversible retinal disorder to a hostile target's eyesat distances greater than 11 yards. However, given that the output poweris adjustable, a higher power output laser can be safely used as long ascare is taken to ensure that only a safe power level for a particularrange is used. For example, a 250 mW laser having a wavelength of 532 nm(making it a green laser) and adapted to operate off of 5V. Such laserdiodes are readily available, and provide the advantage of a far greaterrange exceeding 500 yards. However, an adjustment mechanism must be usedensure that the power level that is directed at a hostile target's eyesis low enough to not cause irreversible retinal disorder.

In this case, a knob 152 is coupled to the focal components of theoptical housing housings 110, 120; i.e., the prism systems 108 and thefocus elements 121, 122 using any of the methods known in the prior art,such as transmission rods, etc. In addition, the knob 152 is alsocoupled to a power adjustment for the laser 140. The power adjustmentcan be, for example, as simple as a potentiometer, a voltage input to amicrocontroller, etc. The power adjustment of the laser is calibrated sothat at all distances, when an image is in focus, the power of the laser140 operable on the hostile target is insufficient to cause irreversibleretinal disorder to the target's eyes.

Other components are required for the laser 140 to operate properly. Inparticular, a power source, such as batteries, and support circuitry,including voltage regulators, current sources, transistors, capacitors,and resistors can be required as well. As with the embodiment of FIG. 1, a push-button switch can be used to activate the laser, and the switchcan be mounted on top of the jointed segment 130.

The embodiment of FIG. 2 is intended to provide a longer rangenon-lethal dazzling device 100. In particular, the dazzling device 100of FIG. 2 can be operated by a user that must aim the device at ahostile target's face and bringing the same into focus, and activatingthe dazzling laser 140, resulting in the hostile actor being stunned andtemporarily neutralized. To aid in the clear identification of thedevice to friendly team members, housing 110 and 120 may be painted,molded or otherwise coated in bright or distinctive colors such as blazeorange. Objectives 118 and 119 may be oversized to obscure theidentifying marking or color housing from the hostile actor located infront of the device. Housing 110 and 120 may also be flared, expanded,or otherwise modified near objectives 118 and 119 to further mask thebold housing from front view, while still being identifiable from a sideview.

Turning to FIGS. 3 and 3 a, a still more complicated embodiment of thedisclosed non-lethal dazzling device is disclosed. In particular, theembodiment of FIG. 3 integrates electronic circuitry to perform a numberof functions. First, the embodiment of FIG. 3 integrates a range finder.A range finder is a laser-based device that typically operates in anon-visible spectrum, such as infrared. The range finder incorporates atransmitter; i.e., a laser diode, and a receiver, such as a siliconavalanche photodiode, or an InGaAs PIN avalanche photodiode(collectively referred to hereafter as a receiver). The output of thereceiver is coupled to a microcontroller or microprocessor (collectivelyreferred to hereafter as “processor”), which then adjusts the powerlevel of a coupled dazzling laser using, for example, a digitallycontrolled potentiometer, pulse width modulation, delta modulation, themanipulation of aperture size, lens adjustments potentially includingbeam spreading, polarization plates, an algorithm for rapidly enablingand disabling the laser (other than PWM or DM), bias control and othermethods known in the art. In a further electronics-based embodiment, aconfirmation can be required prior to activation; i.e., the user wouldhave to go through range finding and activation stages as set forthbelow to ensure that a hostile target's eyes were not exposed to a powerlevel sufficient to cause irreversible retinal disorder to the target'seyes. In addition, another feature that can be incorporated is the useof facial recognition functions that can inhibit the dazzle effectunless a person's head or face is recognized. The facial recognitioncould be enhanced by electronically placing a box or other highlightaround the potential target(s) in a display for the user. The facialrecognition could be further enhanced with electronic muzzle flashlocation and highlighting. The functions could also include biometricmeasurements such as verifying pupil to pupil distance or that thetarget silhouette size matches within a predetermined tolerance (say15%) to the distance reported by the range finder. As an alternativeembodiment to rangefinder 260, the target silhouette size can becompared electronically to a table of silhouette sizes at knowndistances to determine the range to the target. In addition, asdiscussed herein, video recording can also be incorporated and stored onthe onboard flash memory 267 or external flash memory (not shown). Inaddition, the target area size can be appreciably increased and the needfor aiming accuracy decreased by incorporating laser scanning methodsknown in the art. In an embodiment, a refraction element is moved infront of the emitter. In another embodiment, galvanometers or electricmotors can move a diffraction grating, lensing or the laser diode withrelation to a diffraction grating, mirrors, prisms or other methodsknown in the art to allow the laser to scan a larger target area. Inanother embodiment, the need for aiming accuracy can be further reducedby electronically designating a target with a lower power laser orelectronic highlight displayed to the user and steering the laser to theoptimum target location using the aforementioned beam steering in a“fire and forget” process. In another embodiment, multiple emitters in agrid like pattern are mounted on a substrate that simultaneously orsequentially emit to increase the targeting beam area at the target. Anexample construction incorporates 10000 laser emitters mounted in a100×100 pattern that would cover an area of two feet by two feet at 20yards. The example construction could have center lasers mounted at 90degrees to the substrate and outermost lasers mounted at +1.035 degreesoffset to the center lasers. Lasers approaching the center would beprogressively less offset than +1.035 degrees until parallel to acenterline of 90 degrees to the substrate. The mounting angle may bemixed or reversed from the above arrangement to allow for a variety ofmanufacturing techniques. In another embodiment, one or more lasers maybe used with a light pipe that diverges into several exit apertures. Anexample construction incorporates a one or more adjustable power output532 nm lasers emitting into one or more light pipe(s) with 5000 exitpoints. The exits would have exit angles formed into a grid like patternto provide coverage of 2 feet by 2 feet at 20 yards. A photolithographicprocess may have the devices angled in random locations, while amachined base may have regular angles as determined by standardmachining processes. The substrate could also be edge emitting whereinthe lasers are mounted on the substrate edge providing the necessaryoffset. This wide aiming angle would make the device suitable fornon-steady platforms such as drones or other vehicles in motion.

The embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 3 a is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 2, except that its dazzling and optical functions are now electronicallycontrolled. In particular, FIG. 3 depicts a non-lethal dazzling device200. A first housing 210 is coupled to a second housing 220 by a bridge230. Each of the housing elements 210, 220 includes an eyepiece 216, 217and an objective 218, 219. Other optical elements may be included asdescribed with regards to the embodiment of FIG. 2 , or as known in theprior art.

Within the bridge 230, a range finder 260 is disposed. As discussedabove, the rangefinder includes a transmitter, which is generally alaser diode that is adapted to produce non-visible light, such asinfrared. It is anticipated that other methods known in the art of rangefinding will be suitable including passive autofocus, phase detection,and contrast detection. In addition, the rangefinder may include areceiver, and other components as is known in the art. In addition, thebridge 230 incorporates a dazzling laser 240. The dazzling laser 240generally will have a power output of tens or more milliwatts, whichwould generally make the device banned by treaty. However, as disclosedherein, the power adjustment circuit will ensure that the power levelthat the target is exposed to is low enough so that no irreversibleretinal disorder will be done to the target's eyes. In an embodiment,range finder 260 is mounted to determine range to the target, Rangefinder 260 may also be oriented toward the target and a second rangefinder (not shown) may be oriented toward the user to ensure the user isholding the device in the correct orientation with 216 and 217 towardthe user and 218 and 219 toward the target. In an embodiment, theforward facing range finder would need to detect a range greater thanthe longest arm's length of about four feet, and the rear range finderwould need to detect a range less than 1 foot to ensure the dazzler isin the correct orientation to prevent self-dazzling of the operator Boththe dazzling laser 240 and the rangefinder 260 are coupled to aprocessor 265. The processor 265 requires certain support circuitry,including RAM 266 and FLASH 267. It should be noted that other types ofstorage, such as magnetic RAM, may be viable in the future, and thespecific type of short-term and long-term memory that is utilized is notintended as a limitation of the disclosure unless it is expresslyclaimed. The processor 265 is coupled to a power adjustment 245 circuit,which controls the power level of the dazzling laser 240. In addition,the processor 265 is coupled to a photosensor 270, to record video ofthe image that the user would observe from one of the optical lenses,such as the eyepiece 216 of the left housing 210. The video display mayalso be used for electronic target designation where a box or otherhighlight could be placed on electronically recognized targets usingimage recognition techniques known in the art, such as muzzle flash,firearms, or other suitable targets or conditions. The user may scrollthrough the highlighted targets by touching trigger 280 for a secondpredetermined time period or scroll using an additional target selectorcontrol similar to 280 such as a joystick, spin-wheel, or the like maybe added. It is anticipated that targeting may also be completely underdevice software or remote-control using wireless communication methodssuch as 5G or similar protocols known in the art. A similar mechanismwould allow a video display 275 from photosensor 270 to be shown to oneof the optical lenses, such as the eyepiece 216 of the left housing 210.A focus dial 252 is disposed in the jointed bridge 230 as well; themethod of operation of the focus can be similar to that of FIG. 2 , orcan operate in any other way known in the art, including entirelydigitally, thus minimizing potential effects to the operator shouldreflective surfaces be targeted. Finally, the processor 265 is coupledto a trigger 280, which can be, as previously described, a push buttonswitch disposed on the top of the bridge 230 where a user's fingerswould naturally be disposed when handling the device non-lethal dazzlingdevice 200. In addition, a battery 284 provides power to the electroniccomponents.

In operation, a user would pick up the non-lethal dazzling device 200and aim the device 200 at a hostile target (not shown). Once the hostiletarget's face was in focus (after electronic focus or using the focusdial 252), the user would press the trigger 280 a first time activatingthe transmitter (not shown) of the range finder 260. The receiver (notshown) of the rangefinder 260 would report a range to the processor 265.The processor 265 would then update the display 275 so as to notify theuser that the dazzling laser is going to be activated. This will allowthe user to ensure that the hostile target is still at approximately thesame range as when s/he activated the rangefinder, and that no targetsare closer than the hostile target, and therefore in danger of sufferingirreversible retinal disorder. If the user presses the trigger 280 asecond time within some predetermined amount of time, such as 5.0seconds, the processor activates the dazzling laser 240 afterprogramming the power adjustment circuit 245 so as to ensure that theequivalent power disposed on the hostile target's eyes is at a levelthat will dazzle the hostile target without causing irreversible retinaldisorder to the hostile target's eyes. The above process may also besoftware controlled whereby the processor inhibits the dazzling laseruntil range is confirmed by the processor and the laser is turned on ateye safe power levels as soon as the processer confirms distance at thefirst button press. Additional embodiments may inhibit the laser until abeam steering mechanism can be electronically confirmed to be optimallyon target to say 0.1 inches at 100 yards. Other embodiments includemultiple single button presses or the pressing of a number of buttons,say 5, in a predetermined sequence.

The potentially high-power output of the dazzling laser 240 allows thedevice 200 to be used at long ranges, such as more than 100 yards. Inaddition, the high power output of the dazzling laser 240 can also beuseful if countermeasures, such as special glasses, are used, or if theenvironment contains smoke or dust that would affect the received powerlevel. In such a case, a high power override can be incorporated,allowing the user to manually to set the power level by, for example,holding the trigger 280 while adjusting the focus dial 252. In anadditional embodiment, the built-in optics, electronics, and/or videoprocessing may autodetect faces, muzzle flashes, weapons or the like andprovide the user with electronic highlighting around the target using adisplay. The electronics may also detect the presence of countermeasuresor airborne contaminants and automatically adjust the power, frequency,frequency hopping, beam steering, or other beam properties to apredetermined different, but still eye safe, profile for the currentenvironment or countermeasures.

Turning to FIGS. 4-7 , the underside of an additional non-lethaldazzling device 600 constructed in accordance with this disclosure isdepicted. A first housing 610 is joined to a second housing 620 by abridge 630. The bridge 630 incorporates a focal mechanism that can beconstructed similar to those that were disclosed with previousembodiments, and which can be controlled by knob 652. As depicted,bridge 630 is jointed, so that the first housing 610 and second housing620 can be collapsed into a smaller space as depicted in FIG. 7 . Bothhousing elements 610 and 620 include elements similar to those shown inthe embodiment of FIG. 2 , including an eyepiece 616, 617, an objective618,619, focal elements (not shown), and prism systems (also now shown)if image inversion is required.

Mounted on top of the bridge 630 is a dazzling module 640. The dazzlingmodule 640 includes a power switch 626, a first button 642, and a secondbutton 643. The power switch 626 turns the dazzling module 640 “on” or“off.” As explained below, the first button 642 activates the dazzlingmodule 640 in low power mode, while the second button 643 activates thedazzling module 640 in high power mode. The dazzling module furtherincludes a dazzling laser 650. This particular embodiment could employ awavelength of 532 nm, making it a green laser, with a power output of4.9 mW. The drive circuit of the laser is adapted to limit the actualpower output of the laser so that the effective safe dazzling range ofthe laser would be limited to 50 yards when activated in low power mode(the first button 642), and more than 150 yards when activated in highpower mode (the second button 643).

Typically, the way that a user would utilize the non-lethal dazzlingdevice 600 disclosed in FIGS. 4-7 would be to point the non-lethaldazzling device 600 at the hostile actor and use the focal knob 652 toacquire the hostile actor's face. Once the hostile actor's face is infocus, the user would then press either the first button 642, if theuser is less than 50 yards away, or the second button 643 if the user ismore than 200 yards away. The distances and power levels are exampledistances, and it is anticipated that dazzlers would be made with rangesfor typical structures such as churches or shopping malls.

Turning to FIG. 8 , a simplified schematic block diagram for theembodiment of dazzling module 640 disclosed in FIGS. 4-7 is illustrated.A switch 626 couples a battery 718 to a power circuit 702, whichprovides power to the remaining components of the dazzling module. Thepower circuit 702 can be implemented in a variety of means known in theart, such as a switching power supply, or a simple linear supplycircuit. A first pushbutton switch 642 serves to couple a low powerdrive circuit 704 to Laser Drive 710, while a second pushbutton switch643 couples a high power drive circuit 706 to the Laser Drive 710.

The low power drive circuit 704 programs the Laser Drive 710 to limitthe power to the laser 650, while the high power drive circuit 706allows the Laser Drive 710 to provide the maximum permissible power tothe laser 650. The low power drive circuit 704 and high power drivecircuit 706 may provide analog inputs or digital inputs to the LaserDrive 710, whose operation is similarly bound only by the prior art.Finally, the Laser Drive 710 powers the Laser 650, which will produce anappropriate intensity beam.

FIGS. 9 and 10 discuss an embodiment that is similar to that disclosedin FIGS. 3 and 3 a. In particular, FIG. 9 depicts a non-lethal dazzlingdevice 800 that includes a first housing element 810 and a secondhousing element 820. The first housing element 810 is coupled to thesecond housing element 820 by a bridge 830. As depicted, the bridge 830is jointed and incorporates an articulating hinge, which allows thenon-lethal dazzling device 800 to be compressed into a smaller formfactor for storage. The first housing element 810 includes an eyepiece816 and an objective 818. The second housing element 820 includes aneyepiece 817 and objective 819. The first housing element 810 alsoincludes a diopter focus 853, and the second housing element 820includes a diopter focus 854. Other optical elements can be included asdescribed with regards to the other embodiments disclosed herein, or asknown in the prior art.

The bridge 830 includes a range finder 860. The rangefinder 860 can besimilar to that disclosed with regards to the embodiment of FIGS. 3 and3 a. The bridge 830 also includes a dazzling laser 840. The laser 840can have, for example, a power output of 4.9 mW with a wavelength of 532nm making it a green laser. It is anticipated to minimize the profile ofthe complete device that Laser 840, rangefinder 860, photosensor 270 andall other associated components could be contained inside of the firsthousing element 810 or the second housing element 820 with thecorresponding image displayed to the user on video display 275.

Turning to FIG. 10 , a simplified schematic diagram of a circuit for usewith the non-lethal dazzling device 800 disclosed in FIG. 9 isillustrated. A battery 918 provides power to a power regulator 902,which provides power to power saving processor 904 which keeps thedazzler in very low power mode until activated, say five microwatts,yielding a typical lithium battery cell standby life of more than fiveyears. Lower standby power modes can be achieved through the use ofisolating electronics, mechanical switching or the use of relays orother similar mechanisms. The power processor 904 accepts inputs from alaser trigger 880, a range finder trigger 878, and a video recordertrigger 882. The power processor 904 is coupled to the main processor965. The main processor 965 can incorporate its own storage, includingrandom access memory for computations and short-term storage, and FLASHmemory for long term storage. The main processor 965 can alsoincorporate its own support circuitry. However, given the ability torecord video, at least some external memory 966 will be required. Theexternal memory 966 can include FLASH memory, magnetic RAM, or othertypes of storage.

The main processor 965 further controls a laser power control circuit970. The laser power control circuit 970 can be programmed via analoginputs generated by the main processor 965, or via digital commands. Thelaser power control circuit 970 controls a number of laser drivecircuits (there are two illustrated). In the illustrated embodiment, thelaser power control circuit 970 controls two laser drive circuits; afirst laser drive circuit 974 which drives a first laser 975 and asecond laser drive circuit 978 which drives a second laser 979. Forexample, the first laser drive circuit 974 and first laser 975 may beadapted for close range dazzling, while the second laser drive circuit978 and second laser 979 may be adapted for longer range dazzling.Alternately, second laser 979 may be adapted for transmission and rangefinding the target in conjunction with range finding receiver 984.Alternately, second laser 979 may be adapted to supplement first laser975 by being offset by a typical interpupil distance, or may provide amore divergent or less divergent beam then first laser 975. The mainprocessor 965 is also connected to a range finder receiver 984 whichfunctions as discussed previously with other embodiments.

The main processor 965 can automatically program the laser drive circuitbased on input from the focus 977, the rangefinder 984, or a combinationthereof. As discussed above, the rangefinder receiver 984 could report arange of an object, and the main processor 965 could set the power viathe laser power control 970 appropriately. Alternatively, the mainprocessor 965 could monitor the setting of the focus 977 and use that asthe primary means to program the laser power control 970. In such acase, the video processing circuitry 982 could implement a GaussianFilter, or other mechanism known in the art to ensure that the objectbeing aimed at is actually in focus—this would prevent accidental orintentional irreversible retinal disorder.

The main processor 965 also controls a video recording circuit, whichcan comprise a camera 980 as well as video processing circuitry 982.Camera 980 and video processing circuitry 982 may also be used to detectrapid movement of the dazzling device using well known video processingtechniques. The video processing circuitry 982 and main processor 965would reduce or turn off laser driver 974 until the dazzler stabilizedand range finder 984 could report stable distance to processor 965. Itshould be noted that digital cameras and image processing are well knownin the art at this point, and any suitable prior art mechanism can beused. The video processing circuitry 982 can also be used to detect whenthe non-lethal dazzling device 800 is quickly moved; for example, a usermay have focused on a hostile actor 200 yards away, and then suddenlyturned to her left to focus on a potential hostile actor 10 yardsaway—if the laser is maintained at the same laser drive power level,this would result in a greater intensity laser spot at a distance totarget of 10 yards than at 200 yards, which could damage the potentialhostile actor's eyes, so the video processing circuitry 982 could act todisable the laser until a proper range is calculated using themechanisms discussed herein. Additionally, any suitable inertial sensorsuch as an electronic compass, accelerometer, electronic gyroscope orthe like could be used and incorporated into device safety switches 986,thus preventing the operation of the dazzling laser unless therangefinder and power level was at a correct level.

The main processor also couples to input/output port 983, which can beused to access recorded video or to program the non-lethal dazzlingdevice 800 with software updates, settings, etc. The port may operate ina wired fashion say USB, JTAG, RS488 or wirelessly, say Wi-Fi, 5G,Bluetooth or inductive coupling. Similarly, the main processor 965monitors an anti-theft device 990, which, when active, will cause theprocessor 965 to prevent any functioning of the non-lethal dazzlingdevice 800. Anti-theft device 990 may use any of the anti-theft featuresknown in the art. For example, anti-theft device 990 may allow a remotedevice, such as a smartphone or a server, to send a signal to theanti-theft device 990 over a wireless network that would disable thenon-lethal dazzling device 800. Alternatively, anti-theft device 990 mayonly operate if it detects a signal or response from a second device,such as a base station or an RFID device. Alternatively, anti-theftdevice 990 may utilize geo-fencing; i.e., it will only operate if it isplaced in a particular bounded area or areas. Anti-theft device 990 canmake use of various biometric authentication mechanisms, such as afinger print reader, voice recognition, face recognition, etc. It shouldbe noted that various other means known in the art can also be used bythe anti-theft device 990. In addition, the main processor 965 monitorsone or more device safety switches 986 such as housing interlocks usedto turn off the laser and associated circuitry if any user servicecovers are opened.

In practice, a user would pick up the non-lethal dazzling device 800 andaim the device 800 at a hostile target (not shown). The user would thenuse the center focus dial 852 or the diopter focus dials 853, 854 tobring the hostile target's face into focus. The user then presses therange finder trigger 878 activating the transmitter of the range finder979. The range finder receiver 984 would then a report a range to themain processor 965. The main processor 965 may notify the user that thedazzling laser is going to be activated by, for example, flashing anLED, or activating an audible chirp using a speaker (not shown). Thiswill allow the user to ensure that the hostile target is still atapproximately the same range as when s/he activated the rangefinder, andthat no targets are closer than the hostile target, and therefore indanger of suffering irreversible retinal disorder. The user would thenpress the laser trigger 880 to activate the non-lethal dazzling device800. The main processor 965 then programs the laser power control 970and activates the appropriate laser drive circuit and the appropriatelaser. In one embodiment, the main processor 965 selects the laser drivecircuit and laser based on the range information received by the rangefinder receiver 984. In another embodiment, focusing operations arefully automatic using well known automatic focus techniques.

The potentially high-power output of the non-lethal dazzling device 800allows the device 800 to be used at long ranges, such as more than 100yards. In addition, the high power output of the non-lethal dazzlingdevice 800 can also be useful if countermeasures, such as darksunglasses, are used, or if the environment contains smoke or dust thatwould affect the received power level.

The previously disclosed non-lethal dazzling device embodiments aretargeted to military and law-enforcement personnel, as well as othertrained users. In particular, the previously disclosed embodiments aredesigned to be used at range by trained users that are able to target ahostile actor's face. However, the principles of a non-lethal dazzlingdevice can also be applied to a device intended for use by the generalpopulace. The advantage of such a device are readily apparent. Inparticular, a general-purpose device could be used by a person in atypical self-defense situation, i.e., when unexpectedly confronted by ahostile actor.

The non-lethal dazzling device disclosed in FIG. 11 is one potentialembodiment of a personal non-lethal dazzling device 1000. In particular,the personal non-lethal dazzling device 1000 incorporates a back housing1002 and a front housing 1004. The front housing 1004 is slideablycoupled to the back housing 1004, so that the front housing 1004 canslide away from the back housing as depicted in FIG. 11 a . When thefront housing 1004 is slid away from the back housing 1002 an internalpanel 1010 is exposed. When the personal non-lethal dazzling device 1000is in its most compact form, it could be sized to be the same size as acredit card when laid flat, and of the same thickness as 2-4 typicalcredit cards laid on top of one another. This will allow the personalnon-lethal dazzling device 1000 to be stored in a pocket, common walletor money clip, so that the personal non-lethal dazzling device 1000 canbe concealed from view until needed.

The front panel 1004 includes a trigger 1006, which in this case is asimple button. The front panel also includes a lanyard hole 1008.Turning to the user panel 1010, the user panel includes an aiming aid1014, which is disposed above a laser array 1016. In an embodiment,aiming aid 1014 is a simple cutout window. In other embodiments, aimingaid may be a lens, electronic viewfinder, camera, or other targetingaids known to the arts. The laser array 1016 could comprise an array ofa number, such as forty-nine, separate lasers, although a differentnumber of lasers could also be used. In such a case, each of the laserscould be, for example, a class 1 laser, or a class IIa laser operatingat 532 nm with a total power output of less than 1 milliwatt each.Alternatively, a single higher power laser along with a lensing system,such as a beam-spreader, light pipes or other beam expanding techniquesdiscussed herein, could be used as the laser array 1016. In such a case,a 532 nm laser with a power output of 4.9 milliwatts or greater could beused, along with a suitable beam-spreader technique.

The user panel 1010 also includes a proximity sensor 1012. The proximitysensor 1012 can be, for example, an infrared or ultrasonic proximitysensor. The proximity sensor 1012 is primarily intended to preventoperation of the personal non-lethal dazzling device 1000 when a personis within close proximity to the device. For example, the proximitysensor 1012 may inhibit operation when any object is detected within 0.5meters of the proximity sensor. Proximity sensor 1012 may also beduplicated on the back side and operate in conjunction with front sideproximity sensor to prevent operator self-dazzling. These minimumdistances front to the target and rear to the user of say a minimum offour feet to the front and a maximum of one foot to the rear can helpprevent a user from dazzling him or herself with the personal non-lethaldazzling device 1000 or from operating the personal non-lethal dazzlingdevice 1000 in circumstances where it could cause irreversible retinaldisorder.

Turning to FIG. 12 , an exemplary simplified circuit diagram thatimplements the personal non-lethal dazzling device 1000 is depicted. Inparticular, the circuit includes a battery 1064. The battery 1064 issized to allow for a reasonable number of uses, such as, for example,500 uses, and will have suitable durability, such as a ten-year life.The battery 1064 could be replaceable or permanent. A slider switch 1062is coupled between the battery 1064 and a power circuit 1052. The powercircuit 1052 is adapted to provide conditioned power to the remainingcomponents of the circuit, and can operate using any of the ways knownin the art, such as via a linear regulator or a switching power supply.

A pushbutton 1006 operates to activate the personal non-lethal dazzlingdevice 1000. The proximity sensor 1012 acts as a switch, disabling thedevice when an object is detected in close proximity. Finally, a laserdrive 1054 powers a laser array 1016. The laser drive 1054 can operateas previously disclosed herein. In an alternative embodiment, proximitysensor 1012 may be a range finder as previously disclosed herein andprovide ranging information to adjust the output of dazzling laser aspreviously disclosed herein.

In operation, a user will take the personal non-lethal dazzling device1000 out of storage; i.e., out of the user's purse, wallet, money clip,pocket, etc., and slide the front housing 1004 away from the backhousing 1002. The user will then use the aiming aid 1014 to target thehostile actor. The proximity detector 1012 will allow operation of thepersonal non-lethal dazzling device 1000 as long as no object is within0.5 meters of the proximity detector 1012 in the direction the proximitydetector 1012 is facing. Once the hostile actor's face is targeted, theuser will use the trigger 1006 to activate the laser array 1016, whichwill either dazzle or at least warn the hostile actor, depending on therange from the hostile actor to the activated device.

The foregoing description of the disclosure has been presented forpurposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed. Thedescription was selected to best explain the principles of the presentteachings and practical application of these principles to enable othersskilled in the art to best utilize the disclosure in various embodimentsand various modifications as are suited to the particular usecontemplated. It should be recognized that the words “a” or “an” areintended to include both the singular and the plural. Conversely, anyreference to plural elements shall, where appropriate, include thesingular.

It is intended that the scope of the disclosure not be limited by thespecification, but be defined by the claims set forth below. It shouldalso be noted that a variety of the features discussed herein. may becombined with other features discussed herein. In addition, althoughnarrow claims may be presented below, it should be recognized that thescope of this invention is much broader than presented by the claim(s).It is intended that broader claims will be submitted in one or moreapplications that claim the benefit of priority from this application.Insofar as the description above and the accompanying drawings discloseadditional subject matter that is not within the scope of the claim orclaims below, the additional inventions are not dedicated to the publicand the right to file one or more applications to claim such additionalinventions is reserved.

What is claimed is:
 1. A non-lethal handheld dazzling device comprising:a housing having a forward-facing direction and a rear-facing direction;a processor disposed in the housing; a forward-facing range finderoperatively connected to the processor, the forward-facing range finderbeing operative to detect a distance to a target in front of theforward-facing range finder and to transmit producing a distance totarget signal to the processor, the distance to target signalrepresenting the detected distance to the target, the processor beingoperative to program the laser drive circuit to generate a laser drivepower; a dazzling module coupled to the housing and operativelyconnected to the processor, the dazzling module comprising: a firstlaser emitter oriented in the forward-facing direction and emitting alaser beam to produce a laser spot at a forward distance having a spotdiameter that is proportional to the forward distance; a laser drivecircuit, the processor being operative to program the laser drivecircuit to generate a programmed laser drive power based on the detecteddistance to the target, the programmed laser drive power having a firstvalue when the detected distance is a first detected distance and asecond value larger than the first value when the detected distance is asecond detected distance larger than the first detected distance, thefirst and second values being operative to power the first laser emitterso that a 0.25 second exposure to the emitted laser spot at the firstand second detected distances will not cause irreversible retinaldamage; and a laser trigger operatively coupled to the laser drivecircuit and the processor whereby the laser drive circuit is activatedby the processor in response to an activation of the laser trigger toproduce the programmed laser drive power; wherein the laser drivecircuit powers first laser emitters.
 2. The non-lethal handheld dazzlingdevice of claim 1, further comprising a second laser emitter oriented ina direction that is offset no more than 30 degrees from theforward-facing direction, wherein the drive circuit powers the secondemitter sequentially after the first emitter.
 3. The non-lethal handhelddazzling device of claim 1 wherein the drive circuit powers the secondemitter simultaneously with the first emitter.
 4. The non-lethalhandheld dazzling device of claim 1 wherein the housing is substantiallyrectangular.
 5. The non-lethal handheld dazzling device of claim 1wherein the dazzling module is disposed within the housing.
 6. Thenon-lethal handheld dazzling device of claim 1 wherein the housing has arearward facing direction and a rearward-facing range finder coupled tothe processor.
 7. The non-lethal handheld dazzling device of claimfurther comprising the processor being operative, in response toreceiving the distance to target signal from the range finder, to enablethe laser drive circuit to be activated by the activation of the lasertrigger and to activate an audible or visible notification signal thatthe laser drive circuit has been so enabled to be activated.
 8. Anon-lethal handheld dazzling device comprising: a housing having aforward-facing direction and a rear-facing direction; a processordisposed in the housing; a forward-facing range finder coupled to theprocessor, the range finder producing a distance to target signalrepresenting a detected forward distance to an object in theforward-facing direction from the forward-facing range finder; arear-facing range finder coupled to the processor, the rear-facing rangefinder producing a rearward distance signal representing a detected reardistance to an object in the rear-facing direction from the rear-facingrange finder; a dazzling module coupled to the housing, the dazzlingmodule comprising: at least one emitter mounted to be operative to emita laser beam in the forward-facing direction; an emitter drive circuit;and a trigger operatively coupled to the emitter drive circuit and tothe processor whereby the emitter drive circuit is activated by anactivation of the trigger and produces a drive power only when thedetected rear distance is less than a predefined maximum limit and thedetected forward distance is greater than a predefined minimum limit;wherein the emitter drive circuit powers the emitter.
 9. The non-lethalhandheld dazzling device of claim 7 wherein the processor is operativeto enable the laser drive circuit to be activated by the activation ofthe laser trigger only when the laser trigger is activated within apredetermined amount of time after the activation of the notificationsignal.
 10. The non-lethal handheld dazzling device of claim 9 whereinthe predetermined amount of time is 5.0 seconds.